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When selling your home, never underestimate the power of great curb appeal! Creating a strong first impression with potential buyers begins on the outside. A well-maintained exterior surrounded by quality landscaping will help set the tone, providing a preview of what they can expect once they step inside. It’s important year round, even in the snowy winter months, and especially in the spring and summer when everything is in full bloom. So, how do you spruce up your outdoor space and increase your home's value without overspending? Let’s take a look at ten affordable ways to create some excellent, eye-catching curb appeal...

Photo by Full Bloom Home Staging

Photo by Full Bloom Home Staging

1. Mow the lawn and keep it green: Seems obvious, right? A well-kept lawn reflects a well-kept home. Although some buyers can overlook overgrown or dying grass, others will see it as a project they’ll have to add to their to-do list. Keeping a tidy, thriving lawn eliminates those negative thoughts and lets your landscaping shine.

2. Add flowers and plants: In addition to a nice lawn, adding some extra detail with greenery and colorful blooms will give your yard the finishing touches buyers are sure to notice!

Photo by Full Bloom Home Staging

Photo by Full Bloom Home Staging

3. Plant a tree: Adding trees to your yard is a great way to boost curb appeal and property value. Think about planting one in the middle of the yard to provide some future shade, or perhaps one on either side of your home or front entry to frame things up. Just make sure to keep in mind how big the trees will get when deciding where to plant them. Another option would be to look into if your city offers free shade or boulevard trees upon request >> Minneapolis Parks & Rec Site

4. Paint your front door: Make a statement by painting your front door a bold color. This is a great way to give an otherwise neutral toned house a little more color and personality. My personal favorites right now? Dark reds, sunny yellows and kelly greens.

Photo by Full Bloom Home Staging

Photo by Full Bloom Home Staging

5. Add outdoor furniture: Have an empty front porch or patio? Why not give it a useful purpose? Adding a bench or a couple chairs is all it takes to create an inviting space where buyers can imagine spending quality time with family and friends.

Photo by Full Bloom Home Staging

Photo by Full Bloom Home Staging

6. Replace house numbers: Are your house numbers outdated or hard to read? Replacing these can be a quick and easy update. With a variety of font options, from traditional to modern, I’d recommend making sure they tie in with other elements on the exterior of your home.

7. Update your mailbox: Whether yours is full size and by the street or mounted to your house, replacing an outdated or worn down mailbox can add curb appeal. When doing so, just make sure to follow regulations for installation >> USPS Mailbox Guidelines

Photo by Full Bloom Home Staging

8. Update lighting: A well lit home will feel safer and more inviting. Keeping in mind the style of your home, replacing exterior light fixtures with a more updated and brighter version can make a big difference!

9. Install flower boxes: House lacking a little contrast or dimension? Adding flower boxes with seasonal blooms under front facing windows can add some much needed color and charm! Rather not add the boxes? Try adding some large planters outside your front door filled with colorful plants or flowers.

Photo by Full Bloom Home Staging

10. Keep the backyard in mind: While most of the focus may be on the front yard when it comes to creating curb appeal, it’s important to make sure your backyard looks equally cared for. For many buyers, this is where they may envision playing fetch with their pup or watching their children play! Even if landscaping in the back in minimum, a well-kept space is key.

When it comes to selling your home, presentation is everything. In terms of time and money, it’s a good idea to evaluate your current situation to see which of these curb appeal boosters may be the most beneficial for you. Whether you complete some of these items, or everything on the list, it’s sure to make a big difference!